In the ICC Tests ratings, South Africa are ranked second but England seem to have a much better balanced side and victory in the just concluded one-day series would have boosted their hopes before the five-Test series which begins on July 24.

For the Test matches, Nasser Hussain returns to the helm. Under the doughty Hussain, England have played 44 Tests, won 17, lost 15, drawn 12. While Graeme Smith has captained his side for just two matches against Bangladesh and won both.

The contrast in experience is amazing. Hussain had to bide his time before taking over as captain. Smith, on the other hand, has just played 10 Tests. So will youthful exuberance triumph over experience? A battle awaits...

Images: Getty Images